Analysis is the examination of the elements or structure of a text, topic, or issue. Analysis often makes abstract texts or concepts clearer by allowing the analyst to break down and identify their elements. Analysis can also show the relationship between smaller particles within a larger, more complex thing. In argument, analysis means taking a piece of work apart to see the connections among claims, grounds, warrants, support, qualifiers, and rebuttals (Toulmin)(Contrast with SUMMARY.) See also University Writing Center handout SUMMARY VS. ANALYSIS.
Purposes for conducting analyses and the forms analyses take vary across different disciplines. Here are some common examples of ANALYSIS in certain fields:
- A detailed examination of something complex to find out
- what it is
- how it is made
- how it works
- An explanation of the nature and meaning of something (such as analysis of the news)
- A detailed examination of the elements or structure of something, typically as a basis for discussion or interpretation
- The process of separating something into its parts
RHETORICAL ANALYSIS examines texts by looking at the rhetorical devices in the context of the rhetorical situation and assessing the text’s effectiveness.
In business, analysis is a systematic examination and evaluation of data or information by breaking it into its component parts to discover interrelationships. It is the opposite of synthesis. Analysis is also an examination of data and facts to uncover and understand cause-and-effect relationships.
Statistical analysis is a component of data analytics. In the context of business intelligence, statistical analysis involves collecting and scrutinizing every data sample in a set of items from which samples can be drawn. A sample in statistics is a representative selection drawn from a total population.
In linguistics, analysis is the study of language structure and use. It involves examining how words, sentences, and larger units of meaning are formed and how they function in communication. This analysis looks at various aspects of language, including grammar, syntax, semantics (meaning), and pragmatics (contextual use).
Literary analysis is the study and interpretation of literature. It examines the elements of a novel, play, short story, or poem (such as character, setting, tone, theme, imagery), what the author achieves using those elements, and how they do it. (See the University Writing Center handout on LITERARY ANALYSIS.)
In mathematics, analysis is concerned with the theory of functions and the use of limits, continuity, and the operations of calculus. Analysis is a proof of a mathematical proposition by assuming the result and deducing a valid statement by a series of reversible steps.
In philosophy, analysis is a method of resolving complex expressions into simpler or more basic ones.
In psychological theory and therapy, analysis is short for psychoanalysis: a system that aims to treat mental disorders by investigating the interaction of conscious and unconscious elements in the mind and bringing repressed fears and conflicts into the conscious mind by techniques such as dream interpretation and free association.
In science, analysis is the systematic examination of data or evidence using methods grounded in the scientific method. This process involves collecting, organizing, and interpreting information to identify patterns, test hypotheses, or draw conclusions based on observable facts. In writing, scientific analysis helps writers break down complex concepts, present findings clearly, and support arguments with logical, evidence-based reasoning.